revealed

Emmerdale fans have a lot to look forward to on the ITV soap this Christmas – and this is when they can tune in as all the drama unfolds over the festive period

Emmerdale fans are looking forward to tuning in on Christmas Day – and it’s looking like quite a dramatic time during the festive time on the farm. Viewers of the long-running ITV soap, which first aired in 1972, would expect nothing less from the programme but it’s already been quite the year for the residents of the Yorkshire-based village.

This Christmas, there’s concern for Robron as a threat looms for newly reunited Aaron Dingle and Robert Sugden. When news of a possible return is shared not everyone is immediately happy about it, sparking a new feud. Ross Barton is blindsided when he finds out Aaron and Robert are planning to bring Robert’s son Seb back into their lives. Ross was Seb’s stepfather and helped raise him, until Seb’s mother Rebecca White sadly passed away.

What’s more, someone will be showing lurking in the shadows with intent and their reign of terror is only just getting started. When the trees outside his flat are set alight, Aaron once again blames Ross, only for Robert to uncover who the real culprit is. Will he be able to stop them? As Christmas Day arrives Aaron is puzzled when Robert heads off on a mystery errand. Soon there’s serious concern when he doesn’t return – so what has happened to Robert?

READ MORE: Emmerdale Christmas spoilers: Return sealed, escape plan and Robert ‘missing’READ MORE: Emmerdale fans ‘rumble’ who is set to expose Celia after shock confrontation

What time is Emmerdale on Christmas Day? What happens?

But when exactly will fans be able to catch all the Yuletide drama? Traditionally, the soap airs weeknights at 7:30pm in a half-hour slot, often just before Coronation Street. Eager fans can also watch the latest instalment from 7am on the day of broadcast by logging onto ITVX.

However, on Thursday 25th December, the festive special of Emmerdale will air at the significantly earlier time of 6:15pm. Prior to that, the programme will hit screens at 6:55pm on Christmas Eve and once the big day is all over, the soap air again at 6:30pm on Boxing Day.

Emmerdale will then resume its ordinary slot in the days after Christmas, and conclude the festive period with an hour-long special on New Year’s Day.

There’s lots more for fans of Emmerdale to look forward to this Christmas, as evil mother-and-son duo Celia Daniels and Ray Walters are fearing the game is up and they may need to flee, amid their shocking drug schemes being exposed. But with Ray growing closer to Laurel Thomas, could he dare to dream of starting things afresh away from his evil mum?

Kim Tate’s recent near-death experience leaves her pushing people away, and soon Joe Tate is furious by a confession from Lydia Dingle. Joe returns to Home Farm to patch things up with Kim but she sends him packing.

But when she falls and hurts herself, she calls for help only for Lydia to arrive and help her. Kim immediately dismisses her, and she’s soon facing Christmas alone.

Wrapping up Christmas, there’s a public marriage proposal happens, Paddy is missing his father Bear as he remains on Celia’s farm, and Vanessa and Charity are strong-armed into spending Christmas Day together. When Vanessa gets drunk, Charity fears the beans will be spilled as a threat looms.

The entire festive schedule for the ITV soap is as follows: :

Monday December 22 – 7.30pm (30 minutes)Tuesday December 23 -7pm (30 minutes)Wednesday December 24 (Christmas Eve) – 6:55pm (30 minutes)Thursday December 25 (Christmas Day)- 6:15pm (One hour)Friday December 26 (Boxing Day) – 6:30pm (30 minutes) Monday December 29 – 7:30pm Tuesday December 30 – 7:30pmWednesday December 31 – 7:30pmThursday January 1 (New Year’s Day) 7pm (One hour)Friday January 2 – 7:30pm

Emmerdale airs weeknights at 7:30pm on ITV1 and ITVX, with an hour-long episode on Thursdays. * Follow Mirror Celebs and TV on TikTok , Snapchat , Instagram , Twitter , Facebook , YouTube and Threads .

A POPULAR safari park and celeb hotspot got the green light to build accommodation overlooking its lion enclosure.

Construction of the 12 all-weather luxury “Lion Lookout” pods at the much-loved menagerie could begin as early as next year.

Folkestone and Hythe District Council (FHDC) has approved the plans for the Port Lympne Hotel and Reserve, near Hythe, Kent, which will offer guests a safari-style overnight experience.

Port Lympne already features the £1,800-a-night Lion Lodge, known for hosting stars including Amanda Holden, Alison Hammond and Kelly Brook.

Guests will enjoy uninterrupted views of the big cats including daddy lion Hunter and mummy lion Oudrika, as well as their five cute cubs.

Managing director of Howletts and Port Lympne Estates, Tony Kelly, said: “I’m incredibly pleased we have been granted planning permission for our Lion Lookout plans.

read more on safari parks

PACK ATTACK

Zookeeper, 58, eaten alive by pack of lions in front of horrified tourists

TOP TIER

Tripadvisor’s best UK hotels – including a ship, old train station & safari park

“Nestled alongside the largest lion enclosure in Europe and our pride of seven lions, this unique offer will extend our accommodation offering to our guests with uninterrupted close-up views of these magnificent animals.

“The accommodation will be aimed at a family audience and add to our already award-winning offerings.

“Whilst planning has been granted, there are several pre-commencement conditions to fulfil, but we would hope to start the project in late 2026.”

The site will be connected by a newly built timber walkway and designed to keep environmental impact to a minimum.

Each tent will will stand on a raised platform, including a veranda and private viewing area, carefully positioned among the trees so the landscape remains largely unchanged.

Bosses say the new development will complement Port Lympne’s existing luxury overnight stays, which attracted 82,000 visitors last year.

Other famous faces who visited the wildlife park include Emily Atack, Westlife’s Mark Feehily and Rio Ferdinand.

COPS investigating the deaths of Hollywood director Rob Reiner and his wife have shared more details about the scene that greeted them at the couple’s sprawling home. 

Reiner, 78, and Michele Singer Reiner, 70, were allegedly murdered by their 32-year-old son, Nick, on December 14.

Both deaths have been ruled as a homicide by Los Angeles County medical examiners.

And, both died from multiple sharp force injuries. Only one cause of death has been listed on their reports.

Cops on the Los Angeles Board of Police Commissioners spoke briefly about the scene at the $13.5 million Brentwood home. 

Dominic Choi said the couple were found in the master bedroom of the home. 

“Officers conducted a thorough search of the residence to determine whether there was any additional victims or suspects,” he said.

“No one else was located.”

Los Angeles Fire Department was among the first agencies to rush to the Reiner home. 

The first call was made at 3:30pm and a unit was requested to respond to a Code two situation, as per dispatch audio obtained by People. 

A code two situation is where trucks respond with lights flashing and no sirens.

This was then upgraded to code three, where crews respond with sirens and flashing lights. 

The Reiners died on December 14, according to the medical examiner’s report.

A masseuse called the couple’s 27-year-old daughter, Romy, on Sunday when they weren’t let into the home. 

She found her dad’s dead body before suddenly charging out of the home, as reported by the New York Times.

Romy didn’t see her mom’s body before learning that she was also dead.

The legendary career of iconic director Rob Reiner

FAMED actor, director and producer Rob Reiner, 78, died on December 14 alongside his wife Michele Singer, 68, in an apparent homicide.

Here is a look at the prodigious list of achievements the Hollywood powerhouse earned before his tragic and sudden death.

Director’s Beginnings

• Reiner was born in New York City on March 6, 1947, to legendary comedy writer Carl Reiner and singer Estelle Reiner
• He studied at the University of California, Los Angeles film school before breaking into the entertainment industry

Hollywood Career

• Reiner first found fame as an actor playing Michael “Meathead” Stivic on the iconic sitcom All in the Family from 1971 to 1979
• In 1984, he directed his first film This Is Spinal Tap – a mockumentary following a fictional heavy metal band
• Reiner went on to direct cult classic films like The Princess Bride in 1987 and When Harry Met Sally… in 1989
• Other notable movies made by the director include Misery, The American President, and A Few Good Men, which earned an Academy Award nomination for Best Picture
• The production company he co-founded, Castle Rock Entertainment, has also produced hits like Seinfeld and The Shawshank Redemption
• Reiner didn’t halt his acting career either, recently starring in The Wolf of Wall Street in 2013 and The Bear in 2025

Personal Life

• Reiner married actress Penny Marshall in 1971 and adopted her daughter, Tracy, from a previous marriage. The couple divorced in 1981
• He met photographer Michele Singer while shooting When Harry Met Sally
• They married in 1989 and had three children: Jake, born 1991, Nick born 1993, and Romy born 1997)
• Nick opened up about his struggle with drug addiction in 2016. The movie Becoming Charlie, directed by Reiner, was based on Nick’s story
• Reiner was an outspoken Democratic activist and a fierce critic of Donald Trump

Nick was arrested near the Expo/Vermont metro station in the Exposition Park area of Los Angeles at around 9:15pm – around six hours after Romy rushed to the scene. 

Around one hour before he was arrested, he bought a Gatorade from an Arco gas station.

He was reportedly fidgety before buying the drink and kept looking behind him.

At around 4am on Sunday, he checked into the Pierside Santa Monica hotel – located around four miles from the family home.

Nick has been charged with two counts of first degree murder. 

Prosecutors are still considering the death penalty. 

Nick made his first court appearance on Wednesday and wore a blue suicide vest. 

He had been on suicide watch while in custody, according to reports.

In the court hearing, he waived his right to a speedy arraignment, and his next scheduled appearance is January 7.

Timeline of Rob and Michele Reiner’s death

Rob Reiner and his wife of Michele Singer Reiner were found dead in their Los Angeles home on December 14, 2025.

Timeline:

• December 13, 2025: Reiner and his wife Michele attended a holiday party on the evening of December 13 with their son, Nick.
• Sources conveyed to The U.S. Sun that the couple and their son were engaged in a heated public argument while at the event.
• December 14, 2025: Reiner and Michele were found dead in their Brentwood home in Los Angeles at around 3:30 pm PST.
• The couple’s daughter, Romy, reportedly discovered her parents’ bodies.
• Online police records show Reiner and Michele’s 32-year-old son, Nick, was arrested at 9:15 pm PST on December 14.
• December 15, 2025: Authorities in Los Angeles announce that Nick Reiner was arrested and charged with murder.
• Nick was booked into a Los Angeles jail at 5:04 am and was being held on $4 million bail, which was later revoked.
• December 16, 2025: Los Angeles District Attorney Nathan Hochman formally charged Nick Reiner with two counts of first-degree murder.
• Hochman said his office would consider the death penalty in Nick’s case.
• Nick’s scheduled court appearance on December 16 was postponed due to what his attorney said was a procedural issue.

Nick did not enter a plea at the court hearing.

His lawyer, Alan Jackson, told the lawyer it was “too early” to enter a plea.

Outside court, Jackson later told reporters the case involves “complex and serious issues” that needed to be dealt with “thoroughly and carefully”.

Nick’s siblings, Jake and Romy, described the deaths of their parents as a “horrific and devastating” loss.

“Words cannot even begin to describe the unimaginable pain we are experiencing every moment of the day,” they told TMZ.

“They weren’t just our parents; they were our best friends.”

Jake and Romy didn’t mention Nick in their statement.

Nick allegedly killed his parents after attending a Christmas party held on December 13.

But at the shindig, Nick and his dad reportedly had a bust-up, family sources told TMZ. 

Nick also had a tense moment with Bill Hader at the party, according to Page Six.

He reportedly stared at the ex-Saturday Night Live star before storming off.

Nick also quizzed A-listers at the bash, reportedly asking if they were famous.

At the party hosted by Conan O’Brien, Reiner expressed concern for his son’s well-being. 

ADDICTION BATTLES

Nick has been candid about his battles with drug addiction.

His stints in rehab facilities began when he was just 15. 

Nick, also a producer, co-wrote the 2015 film Being Charlie and the inspiration behind it was his relationship with his dad during his addiction.

Charlie, played by Nick Robinson, becomes addicted to drugs and his dad in the movie urges him to get help.

The movie follows Charlie’s battle as he fails at different rehab programs.

“It was very, very hard going through it the first time, with these painful and difficult highs and lows,” Reiner said.

“And then making the movie dredged it all up again.”

Reiner said making the movie with Nick helped the two become closer.

“I said it to his face. I’ll say it on the air: He was the heart and soul of the film and any time I would get an opportunity to work with him I would do it,” he told NPR.

Graham Huntley

‘Beachy Head Lady’

Face Lab/Liverpool John Moores University

Graham Huntley

FORKS at the ready and bosh – Big John is hosting a lavish feast to remember.

The Instagram foodie, who rose to fame for eating Chinese takeaways, is putting new flavours to the test this Christmas by bringing the best of the Spanish and Great British festive food together.

It included the jambon, a traditional part of the Spanish Christmas dinner, which went down a treat with the influencer, whereas he said the British staple of Brussels sprouts can ‘do one’.

The meal was completed with Pastas de España, as well as classic British turkey.

But now, John has claimed he is a changed man and will add a bit of Spanish to his Christmas meal every time.

The spread featuring both nation’s Christmas classics to celebrate the El Gordo Lottery – which is the biggest lottery in the world.

MOVE ON

One of Europe’s top holiday destinations will pay half your rent if you move there

UP N’ DOWN

All rides and attractions we lost in 2025.. and the exciting ones coming in 2026

A spokesperson for Lottoland.co.uk, which commissioned the survey ahead of the £2.4 billion El Gordo Christmas lotto draw, said: “It’s so exciting to bring the Spanish tradition to the UK in the tastiest way possible and who better to work with than Big John…BOSH.

“We are so glad he approves of the traditional Spanish food and has given his stamp of approval.

“Although his feedback wasn’t as glowing for the Brussels sprouts.”

It comes after research of 2,000 adults who celebrate Christmas found six in 10 would like to mark the event in another country to escape holiday stress at home or avoid a British washout.

And 53 per cent of those would like to make new memories in a totally different setting.

While 45 per cent want to enjoy festive food from another cuisine and 31 per cent would meet up with pals who already live abroad.

With the USA, Australia and Spain among the top international destinations where people would love to spend December 25, along with Canada, Germany and Switzerland.

But 40 per cent would like to try out the Japanese tradition of tucking into mountains of KFC on Christmas Day, rather than a typical roast.

Despite a desire to head overseas to celebrate, 76 per cent of those polled said a British Christmas dinner is still the best thing a person can possibly eat on December 25.

But if they did celebrate the day away from home, 67 per cent would be likely to try a local festive dish.

A quarter (25 per cent) would be most curious to try the Feast of Seven Fishes served in Italy, while almost one in 10 (eight per cent) fancy the taste of mantecados – shortbread – served in Spain.

However, 48 per cent would miss the classic meal with all the trimmings, while 31 per cent would feel strange not seeing all the familiar TV specials and festive programming.

And despite moaning about the UK weather, 27 per cent would miss a cold, crisp winter climate if they went somewhere warmer.

As 43 per cent believe Christmas is not ‘complete’ without a cosy festive jumper, according to the OnePoll.com data.

Nearly seven in 10 (69 per cent) would be open to adopting totally new festive traditions if they did go away for the big day.

And they would most want to capture that feeling of togetherness (32 per cent), while 20 per cent would aim for excitement and 16 per cent nostalgia.

Lottoland.co.uk’s spokesperson added: “Spending Christmas abroad offers a fresh perspective on the season.

“Whether it’s swapping snow for sunshine or discovering new festive traditions, there’s something magical about experiencing the holiday through a different cultural lens.

“If you like to spend your Christmas in the UK, it’s not too hard to do a quick online search to find a new tradition from Madrid to Perth and incorporate it into your own festivities.

“But wherever you celebrate, being with the people you love, or at least connected to them, is truly the most important thing.”

ARE you a “Just-in-case Jetsetter” or a “Chill Improviser” when it comes to travelling abroad?

A new travel quiz aims to uncover what type of traveller you are, by asking a series of trip-related questions.

Other outcomes include “The master planner” and “The social explorer”.

It comes after a poll of two thousand adults who go on holiday revealed Brits’ biggest travel blunders including getting lobster red sunburn (26 per cent).

Going exploring and winding up completely lost (24 per cent) and spilling my drink all over myself or even an unsuspecting stranger (14 per cent) also made the list of blush inducing mishaps.

Misreading a menu and ordering something unexpected (12 per cent) and accidently boarding the wrong train or bus (nine per cent) also made the top 30 list.

MOVE ON

One of Europe’s top holiday destinations will pay half your rent if you move there

FLIGHTMARE

Chaos at major UK airport as dozens of flights DELAYED before Christmas

The study was commissioned by ibis to support the launch of its new social media miniseries, the Go Getters.

Jean-Yves Minet, global brand president of ibis, said:  “Everyone travels differently. Some people prepare for every possibility, and others prefer to go with the flow – but no matter your style, the odd mishap is part of the experience and the story you tell when you get home.

“This research shows just how universal those moments are.

“We focus on making travel feel simple and stress-free, whether you’re the spontaneous type, or somewhere in the middle.

“What matters most is feeling confident on the move and being able to enjoy the journey, even when it does not quite go to plan. Sometimes the magic is in the mayhem – it certainly makes for the best story.”

The research found as many as 86 per cent have experienced some kind of mishap on holiday, with 11 per cent experiencing a mishap during most or all of their trips.

And while 68 per cent said other people had had a little laugh at their blunders, 77 per cent did manage to see the funny side too eventually.

When a holiday blunder strikes, 44 per cent would try to fix it, while 22 per cent said they would laugh it off straight away.

But while 56 per cent think a few travel dramas are all part of the adventure, 77 per cent believe they are pretty good at planning to avoid them in the first place.

Buying travel insurance (56 per cent), triple checking their passport is there (48 per cent) and continually applying sun cream (43 per cent) were among the key hacks to avoid disaster.

Followed by double checking the locks and keys (36 per cent), packing a first aid kit (31 per cent) and keeping a watchful eye on the weather forecast (30 per cent).

The research, carried out via OnePoll, also revealed 31 per cent want to travel more in 2026 than they did this year, with 35 per cent claiming the experience is more important than just ticking somewhere off their list.

When it comes to planning these trips, they prioritise location (61 per cent), as well as price (59 per cent) and reviews (44 per cent).

While 64 per cent think the key to affordable travel means getting the best value for money and smart planning and budgeting (40 per cent).

Jean-Yves added: “Everyone has had a moment on holiday that didn’t quite go to plan.

“These findings show just how common they are, and how quickly most people turn them into moments of connection, laughter and shared stories.”

HOME And Away star Rachael Carpani shared a tragic post detailing her health struggles before her sudden death.

The Australian actress, 45, died after “a long battle with a chronic illness”, according to her heartbroken parents.

In 2021, she was rushed to hospital in Sydney after suffering from acute abdominal pain.

The issues caused Carpani, also known for her role in hit Aussie TV show McLeod’s Daughters, to even spend a few days in an intensive care unit before she was taken in for surgery.

She wrote at the time: “I was admitted to emergency with acute abdominal pain just over a week ago and spent a few days in the ICU.

“Was then moved to the surgical ward.”

‘INDEBTED TO YOU’

Parents praise woman shot while shielding their daughter, 3, in Bondi

‘HE DESERVED IT’

Bondi massacre witness who STOMPED on head of shot terrorist speaks out

Carpani said the pain had existed for some time before her issues severely worsened all of a sudden.

She added: “Basically it was a case of me not listening to my body and the pain [I tend to work through pain!] and allowing myself to get quite ill.”

She urged all her followers to always take note of any health woes and to get them checked out as soon as possible.

In a now heartbreaking post from last year, Carpani shared images of herself posing for a photoshoot following a bout of surgery.

Alongside the smiling images, Carpani explained: “My first time back in front of a camera for a photoshoot two days ago.

“No hospital gown, no awesome surgery socks ….[have to admit I miss the comfort].”

It is unclear what surgery the actress was recovering from at the time.

In June 2023, Carpani also underwent surgery on her eyes.

She wrote on Instagram: “After a life with horrific short-sightedness, wearing glasses from the age of 5, I bit the bullet and got ‘eyeball’ surgery.”

She later confirmed it was phakic intraocular lense replacement which is a vision correction surgery where a permanent artificial lens is implanted in the eye.

In an emotional statement, the star’s parents announced her shock passing.

They said: “It is with great sadness that Tony and Gael Carpani announce that their beautiful daughter, beloved Australian actress Rachael Carpani, unexpectedly but peacefully passed away after a long battle with chronic illness.”

She passed away on December 7 in the early hours of the morning.

Her family has said the funeral will be a “private event”.

Carpani was best known for her role as Jodi Fountain in the hit early 2000s series, McLeod’s Daughters.

She appeared on the show between 2001 and 2009 and earned two Logie nominations for her on-screen performance.

The Logies are Australia’s annual awards for television, celebrating Australian TV shows and personalities.

In 2007, Rachael was nominated for a Silver Logie for most popular actress, as well as the biggest award of the night, the Gold Logie.

She had also appeared in a number of films, including The Very Excellent Mr Dundee, Hating Alison Ashley and The Way Back.

More recently, she had a recurring role in hit Aussie soap Home and Away, playing Claudia Salini, an on-screen villain.

The pub chain will soon be opening its doors on its first European branch, and the opening date and some teaser images have been revealed so far for those excited about enjoying a pint in the sun

J D Wetherspoon has revealed further details about its new branch opening in Europe, and it’s in a location that’s a favourite among Brits heading off for their holidays.

Earlier this year, the pub giant confirmed the first European Spoons will be located at the Alicante-Elche Miguel Hernandez Airport in Spain, a popular hub for British tourists making their way to Benidorm.

Alicante-Elche Airport is popular with Brits thanks to its budget airline connections. Airlines such as easyJet, Jet2, and Ryanair offer non-stop routes between many UK airports and Alicante, with flights usually clocking in at less than three hours.

The pub chain has already announced the name of the new establishment – Castell de Santa Bàrbera – which was inspired by an Alicante castle which overlooks the sea. Wetherspoons has also confirmed the pub’s official opening date is set for January 29 at 8am, meaning thirsty travellers will soon be able to enjoy their favourite pint in the sunshine.

OPINION

Milo Boyd

READ MORE: World’s longest-budget flight launches – but booze is banned on 8-hour trip

The location of the new pub has been confirmed as the airside departures, non-Schengen zone of Alicante Airport. Opening hours will be 6am to 9pm, seven days a week, with food being served until an hour before closing time. The pub will offer nearly 1,000 square feet of indoor seating, along with an outdoor terrace providing additional tables for punters.

Wetherspoons has teased its menu, promising to serve up a host of UK favourites, including its famous breakfasts, burgers, and pizzas. For those yearning for one last Spanish culinary experience before jetting off, local delicacies like garlic prawns and Spanish omelettes will also be available.

In a previous statement, Wetherspoon founder and chairman Tim Martin expressed his excitement: ” We are very much looking forward to opening our first overseas pub. We believe it will be popular with people travelling home from Alicante Airport.”

He unveiled his ambitions to expand the brand further, saying: “We aim to open a number of pubs overseas in the coming months and years, including those at airports.”

Alicante-Elche Airport holds the title as the busiest in the Valencian region, boasting a record 18.3 million passengers in 2024.

But this isn’t the only growth plan Wetherspoons has announced in recent months.

The pub giant has also announced plans to roll out four new outlets within Haven holiday parks by the end of spring 2026. The lucky parks set to welcome new branches are: Cala Gran in Blackpool, Hopton in Norfolk, Lakeland in the Lake District, and Riviere Sands in Cornwall.

READ MORE: ‘I’m a family travel expert – this is the hidden gem of Istanbul nobody talks about’READ MORE: ‘I visited Britain’s best Christmas market but it was lacking one important detail’

Five Wetherspoons outlets already operate within Haven parks, serving up crowd-pleasers from the chain’s menu. Since their opening, these branches have dished out 907,000 main meals, 288,000 breakfasts and poured 692,201 pints across the five locations, according to data supplied by Haven.

Wetherspoons is also set to open six new pubs across the UK in the coming months, with locations including Newcastle upon Tyne, Stockton-on-Tees, and Wetherby, Yorkshire.

These new establishments will join the existing network of over 800 Wetherspoon pubs, which already serve customers throughout the UK.

Have a story you want to share? Email us at webtravel@reachplc.com

MONTY Python star Eric Idle has revealed the heartbreaking final conversation he had with Rob Reiner only hours before he was stabbed to death.

Idle said he spoke with a healthy and happy Reiner, 78, for over an hour on the phone as the beloved director opened up on his thoughts on the future.

Hollywood was left in shock after reports emerged that Reiner and his wife Michele, 68, had been stabbed to death at their home on Sunday afternoon.

Their troubled son Nick, 32, is now reportedly a person of interest in the double homicide investigation.

Daughter Romy, who lives across the street from her parent’s $13.5million estate, reportedly discovered the couple with fatal injuries consistent with multiple stab wounds.

Tributes have flooded in for Reiner and Michele since.

FINAL DAYS

Devastating last pictures of Rob Reiner & wife taken before couple found dead

British actor and comedian Idle led the way as he revealed his heartbreaking last talk with Reiner took place just one day before the suspected double murder.

Idle, who first met the When Harry Met Sally director over 50 years ago, wrote: “Rob Reiner was a lovely man. I spoke to him last night for over an hour. I always enjoyed his company.

I met him at his Dad’s in 1975. He was telling me about filming at Stonehenge and his thoughts for the future.

“This is so awful. I shall miss him. A clever, talented and very thoughtful man. So awful.”

Investigations into the death of the Hollywood super couple are still ongoing.

Police rushed to the six-bedroom home just after 3:30pm on Sunday afternoon after an emergency call was reportedly made by Romy, 28.

LAPD Captain Mike Bland quickly confirmed the force are investigating an “apparent homicide”.

Detectives from the Robbery Homicide Division have now been assigned to the case.

LAPD Deputy Police Chief Alan Hamilton told reporters at the scene that investigations will continue throughout the night with multiple family members set to be interviewed.

He added that there was no sign of forced entry into the home.

No arrests have been made with no suspects named at the moment, cops confirmed.

Investigators are set to speak to son Nick about the horror stabbing, according to multiple sources who have spoken with the family.

Nick, who reportedly lives in LA, has rarely been seen publicly since he opened up about his struggles with drug addiction in 2016.

He admitted to first going to rehab at the age of 15 and said his addiction issues even left him homeless.

Romy had shared pictures of her dad on holiday just last week alongside the heartbreaking caption: “Thankful for family, health, and followers of any age.”

HOLLYWOOD ICON

Reiner, raised in the Bronx by comic father Carl, was a huge presence in the movie industry after more than five decades as a top director and actor.

He started his career in front of the camera where he played Michael “Meathead” Stivic on the iconic sitcom “All in the Family” for eight years.

He then moved into directing with his most notable projects including the 1984 cult classic This Is Spinal Tap, The Princess Bride in 1987, and When Harry Met Sally in 1989.

In 1993, he was nominated for an Academy Award for “A Few Good Men,” which starred Jack Nicholson, Tom Cruise and Demi Moore.

Reiner’s production company Castle Rock Entertainment, which he co-founded, also helped to create Seinfeld and The Shawshank Redemption.

He would move between acting and directing right up until his death.

His most notable role in the past 15 years was as Jordan Belfort‘s dad in The Wolf of Wall Street alongside Leonardo DiCaprio.

This year he starred in both the critically acclaimed series The Bear and featured in the Spinal Tap II: The End Continues.

Michele was also known for her work as a producer and photographer.

Her most well known project saw her take the photo of Donald Trump which appears on the cover of his 1987 book Trump: The Art Of The Deal.

Reiner and Michele had been married since 1989 and shared three children together.

They first met while Reiner was directing When Harry Met Sally.

TRIBUTES POUR IN

Tributes for the beloved Hollywood couple quickly flooded in after reports of their deaths were announced.

John Cusack, who starred in Reiner’s film The Sure Thing, said: “Shocked by the death of Rob Reiner – a great man.”

Actor Josh Gad described Reiner as “one of the greatest directors of our time”.

Lord Of The Rings star Elijah Wood later posted: “Horrified to hear of the passing of Rob Reiner and his wonderful wife Michelle.

“So much love to their kids and family.”

Dozens of mourning fans took to the streets of Brentwood to pay their respects to the couple.

Among them was Larry David and Billy Crystal, according to neighbours.

Reiner was also a political force through his Democratic Party activism.

He was widely appreciated for his work as an outspoken supporter for LGBTQ equality and early childhood development.

Former US president Barack Obama paid tribute to Reiner saying he and his wife Michelle were “heartbroken by the tragic passing of Rob Reiner and his beloved wife, Michele”.

Former House speaker Nancy Pelosi described him as “creative, funny, and beloved” as she also paid tribute to Michele.

SHE’s the ultimate Queen of Christmas, best known for her soulful pop tunes, but I can reveal Mariah Carey’s next record will surprise fans.

After years of speculation, I’m told the Hero singer will release her long lost GRUNGE album next year.

While the exact date is still being worked out by the label, I hear it will drop in the second half of 2026.

The record, which is called Someone’s Ugly Daughter, was secretly recorded by Mariah back in the Nineties.

A source said: “Ever since she let slip about the existence of the record, fans have been desperate for it to be officially released and put on streaming.

“After years of casual talks about what to do, everyone has now agreed the album will be released in the second half of 2026.

IN HER PRIME

Jesy Nelson puts new music on hold as she films ‘incredible’ new Prime series

IT’S BLINK FLOYD

People blink in time to music without realising they are doing it

“It’s been a long time coming, but hopefully fans think it’s worth the wait.

“It’s certainly Mariah as you’ve never heard her before.”

The first anyone knew of the record was when Mariah let slip about it in 2020 memoir, The Meaning Of Mariah Carey.

She said: “I think this unearthed version will become, yes, something we should hear. I’m working on a version of something where there’ll be another artist working on this with me as well.”

‘So carefree’

Mariah says the reason she made the album was to push back at being over-controlled by her record label, adding: “I had no freedom during that time. That was my freedom, making that record.”

In the book, she said: “I was playing with the style of the breezy-grunge, punk-light white female singers who were popular at the time. You know, the ones who seemed to be so carefree with their feelings and their image.

“I honestly wanted to put the record out back then under, you know, the same pseudonym, just put it out and be like, you know whatever, let them discover that it’s me.

“But that idea was kind of stomped and squashed.”

I wait with bated breath . . . 

Hardworking Rita worth even m-Ora

EVEN if you’re not a fan of her music, it’s impossible to deny that Rita Ora is a hustler.

The I Will Never Let You Down singer is busy landing jobs doing everything from acting and presenting to modelling and working as a charity ambassador.

Which is why it comes as no surprise to us that the latest accounts for Ora Live and Ora Multi Services reveal she’s topped up her fortune with £4.8 million in profits.

It’s a sure sign Rita is going nowhere anytime soon as the figure is more than double the £2.3 million she made the year before.

Her companies manage her various income streams and reflect her broad career beyond singing.

Multi-talented Rita has also served as a judge on The X Factor and The Masked Singer and even had a film role in the Fifty Shades movie series.

Rita’s takings – which work out at £13,000 per day over the year to April – has helped to increase her net worth to £31 million.

It’s not a bad life, eh?

Kath: LA life not for me

CANADIAN comedian Katherine Ryan has ruled out moving to Hollywood after admitting she hates everything about Tinsel Town.

Letting rip, she said: “I would love some opportunities to do some comedy acting but I will never move to Hollywood because people seem quite sick there . . . in the head.

“I like England. I like people who aren’t positive all the time.

“I like the British way of telling the truth. I like a bit of taking the mick out of one another without getting offended.”

Not stopping there, Kath added: “Hollywood to me seems too sanitised. I would not be welcome.

“I’ve already not been welcome. I had a glass of vino in the morning when my daughter was swimming, they were like, ‘Maam, orange juice?’.

“I was like, ‘No, alcohol’. They nearly called the police.”

Taylor in her stride

TAYLOR SWIFT has hit back at critics who say she should take time out from the industry to give other artists space to shine.

The superstar seemingly breaks every possible record with each new track, causing some music fans to get Taylor-fatigue.

Appearing on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, Taylor said: “There are corners that are like, ‘Give someone else a turn! Can’t you just go away so we can talk about how good you were?’.

“And like . . . ‘I don’t want to’.”

This morning, the first two episodes dropped of The End Of An Era – a six- part Disney+ docuseries that goes behind the scenes of her record-breaking Eras Tour.

You can bet come next week the show will have broken a few more records.

Tate: Why I can be a pop girl

TATE McRAE has opened up about her on-stage alter-ego Tatiana.

The Canadian star explained: “I started to black out onstage and become this person that I couldn’t explain, nor could my family or my friends, and I needed a reason for it.

“And I think it helps me grasp the strange theory of why I’m not nervous in front of 15,000 people, and why I can be nervous at a dinner party with four people.”

She added to Rolling Stone magazine: “Tate is this very introspective, very sensitive, very introverted, awkward Canadian.

“Maybe more on the shy side. I’m observant, and I feel very internal, all the time.

“And then, this persona that I’ve created is my way of being this confident pop girl.”

Sam: Stay with me, Ed

SAM SMITH made sure the final of their To Be Free: New York City residency went off with a bang.

The Stay With Me singer was joined on stage at Warsaw in Brooklyn by Ed Sheeran and Brandi Carlile.

Brandi and Sam duetted on her song Party Of One, while Sam and Ed gave a rendition of Who We Love – a track on Sam’s 2023 album Gloria.

The show was watched by American Vogue’s ice-queen former editor-in-chief Anna Wintour.

In February, Sam’s residency will move to San Francisco and will play at the historic Castro Theatre for eight nights.

While nothing has even been hinted at, I wouldn’t be surprised if a run of shows in London is announced in the New Year.

Liam’s trackie record

HIS dress sense is similar to my own, so I was shocked to see Liam Gallagher named in Vogue’s inaugural 50 best dressed list.

The Oasis rocker was mentioned in the Dedicated Dressers category alongside Iris Law, Miquita Oliver and Amal Clooney.

Meanwhile, my favourite pop star Dua Lipa was in the Music Makers category alongside a line-up of stellar talent including Skepta, Central Cee, Lily Allen and Charli XCX.

Even those with a slightly eclectic taste were catered for, with The Traitors host Claudia Winkleman, and actors Cynthia Erivo, Richard E Grant and Emma Corrin all getting a nod.

I never knew my Adidas tracksuit and tatty old Parka were so cool.

Xmas hit battle

THE official race for Christmas No1 kicks off today – with a new single from Kylie Minogue and WHAM!’s Last Christmas tipped as the front-runners.

Kylie’s song Xmas, which is on track to become her highest entry in the UK charts since 2010’s All The Lovers, leads the pack, while Denise Welch’s Slayyy Bells and Tom Fletcher’s One Of Us, from Paddington The Musical, are also in the running.

Classics including Shakin’ Stevens’ Merry Christmas Everyone, The Pogues’ Fairytale Of New York, and Kelly Clarkson’s Underneath The Tree are also expected to climb the chart.

There are a load of non-festive tunes vying for a shot too, with Raye’s Where Is My Husband, Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande’s For Good and Labrinth’s Where Love Lives.

Once again Mariah Carey’s All I Want For Christmas Is You is tipped to finish in the top five.

The winner of the Christmas No1 will be revealed live on Radio 1 next Friday.

Simon Cowell’s new Netflix show sees the music mogul go on the hunt for his next big boyband.

Simon Cowell’s latest Netflix series is almost ready to launch, unveiling the genuine story behind one of One Direction’s most memorable tracks.

The legendary music mogul and Britain’s Got Talent supremo returns to television tomorrow, Wednesday, December 10, on the streaming giant.

This fresh venture allows viewers to witness the entire process from its inception, as Simon conducts auditions and brings hopeful band members to America to compete for their spot in the group.

To assist in assembling the new boyband, the 66-year-old recruited some of his most reliable collaborators, including former Pop Idol panellist Peter Waterman and singer-songwriter Kamille.

However, it’s the involvement of songwriter and producer Savan Koetcha that truly captures audiences’ interest, having amassed over 102 billion streams throughout his career.

“Simon gave me my first big break as a songwriter”, Savan revealed.

“And so, since then, we’ve worked very closely on a lot of stuff.”

Simon remarked: “And also you gave us the first hit for One Direction, What Makes You Beautiful.”

Revealing the track’s origins, Savan then disclosed: “It was written about my wife. So there you go. True story.”

Savan has been wed to Anna Gustavsson since 2009, with whom he has two sons, and has previously spoken openly about her serving as the muse for the beloved One Direction anthem.

Two years ago, Savan took to Instagram to share his joy, stating: “I figured I would write a little something in celebration of What makes you beautiful hitting a billion streams on Spotify.”

He expressed his gratitude, saying: “In the past, I may have taken something like this for granted, but I (thankfully) don’t anymore. This song means so much to me for several reasons.”

Savan continued: “My two boys know this song is about their mother. It makes me so emotional to know that they can see/feel/hear millions (now billions) of people listen to a song about how beautiful and wonderful their mom is. I think she’s starting to like it now too.”

Simon Cowell : The Next Act will premiere on Netflix on Wednesday, December 10.

Hollyoaks have announced that fans will be able to binge-watch four Christmas episodes at once as the Channel 4’s annual festive boxset returns once again this month

Hollyoaks‘ annual gift to fans is back this Christmas.

It’s been revealed that four special festive episodes will be available to stream on Channel 4 on Monday, December 22 from 6am.

This Christmas, Hollyoaks invites viewers to get festive with four of its most iconic families.

The festive episodes will follow Christmas Day from start to finish, focussing on one family at a time; the Hutchinsons, the Lomaxes, the Clarks/Maaliks and the McQueens.

Jack and Pearl, alongside the Osbornes, are the uniting thread throughout all four episodes.

Pearl takes it upon herself to revive the Christmas magic in the village, but she remains blissfully unaware that Jack is carrying a surprise of his own.

The Christmas boxset follows a triumphant few months for the Channel 4 continuing drama, as the 30th anniversary week in October delivered the show’s strongest performance in years.

Spoilers have confirmed there’s festive cheer at the Hutchinsons this Christmas but an unexpected present sends the day into turmoil. Meanwhile, Jack Osborne (Jimmy McKenna) is suited and booted with a special mission under his sleeve to make the day extra special.

Dee Dee Hutchinson (Chloe Atkinson) hides a gift and Diane Hutchinson (Alex Fletcher) tries to put on the perfect Christmas, grateful Tony Hutchinson’s (Nick Pickard) there to celebrate with them, but a troubled Ant Hutchinson (Brook Debio( continues to cause tension in the household.

Forced to pull his weight and set the table, Ant stumbles across a burner phone which he pockets in secret. An excited Eva Hutchinson (Aubrey Burgess) sneaks a peak in a present under the tree and Dee Dee is left horrified. Ant also reveals a secret that leads to many questions.

There’s Christmas magic at the McQueens, but for Mercedes McQueen (Jennifer Metcalfe) the sparkle has faded.

Warren Fox (Jamie Lomas) turns up in full Santa costume to help spread cheer but things don’t go to plan and a knock on the door grants Theresa McQueen’s (Jorgie Porter) festive wish.

It’s frosty between Misbah Maalik (Harvey Virdi) and Donny Clark (Louis Emerick) this Christmas but will the festive cheer bring the family closer together or will Donny’s recent escapades be exposed?

It’s the first Christmas without Peri (Ruby O’Donnell) at the Lomaxes but Leela (Kirsty-Leigh Porter) is determined to give her children and Lucas Hay (Oscar Curtis) the best day she can which includes extending an olive branch to Ste Hay (Kieron Richardson).

Meanwhile, watching the carollers perform in the village, Pearl Anderson (Dawn Hope) has something she wants to get off her chest.

Hollyoaks airs Monday to Wednesday on E4 at 7pm and first look episodes can be streamed Channel 4 from 7am

VISITING Lapland UK can be more expensive than flying to the Arctic Circle.

Tickets to the festive experience this Saturday are selling for as much as £180 each.

There are no discounts for children, a £24.75 booking fee and £5.95 postage and packaging.

It means a family of five would have to spend more than £930 for their day out.

But a few days in the real Lapland, in northern Finland, can cost in the region of £600.

Lapland UK has a site in Siddington, Cheshire, and another in Ascot, Berks.

LAP IT UP

Sky-high price of a soft toy at Lapland UK is revealed – as mum details TRUE cost

LAP IT UP

Mum slams ‘insane’ Lapland UK prices as she’s quoted £600 for family-of-four

One dad, who asked not to be identified, said: “When I saw the price I spat my mulled wine out.

“It’s obscene pricing, meaning only rich kids get to have the thrill.”

Danielle Halliday said: “We went to Finland last year with two adults, two children.

“Flights were £250, accommodation was £350 for the four nights and going to see Santa is free, or €10 each for a present.

“You might as well go for the real thing for a cheaper price.”

Lapland UK was asked to comment.